by Sarah Kaplan, National Service Inclusion Project

Celebrating People in Action for National Volunteer Week (April 19-25)

National Volunteer Week 2009 is April 19-25. This year’s theme is “Celebrating People in Action.” Below are three new stories of service members or volunteers with disabilities in action, “honoring the individuals who dedicate themselves to taking action and solving problems in their communities.”

Tiffany Hunter, AmeriCorps VISTA
People First of Nevada-Carson City Chapter, 2006-present
Quadriplegia and TBI

“The Carson City Chapter of People First [of Nevada], began with 10 people. In three years, we’ve doubled,” says Tiffany. Meeting monthly, she tracks and facilitates PFN-CC meetings and encourages those in attendance to determine the thrust of the chapter. The experience of working as a VISTA has also allowed Tiffany to increase the network of partners connected to PFN-CC. “We had a barbecue social, but we didn’thave very much money to hold the event. I looked around for donations, but wasn’t having much luck until I talked to the manager at the local grocery chain where I shop. She originally offered to donate $20, but when I went back to the store to pick up the donation, she had increased the donation to $50. With that I was able to buy everything I Continue reading →

04.02.09

by Sarah Kaplan, National Service Inclusion Project

Autism and Inclusive Interviewing for All

Ways that national service programs can make the interview process less chaotic for people with Autism Spectrum Disorders.

April 2 is World Autism Awareness Day and April is National Autism Awareness Month. Given that national service programs have members with non-apparent disabilities, including members with all forms of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs), information and tips for including members with autism are provided below:

What are Autism Spectrum Disorders?

According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), “Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are a group of developmental disabilities defined by significant [limitations] in social interaction and communication and the presence of unusual behaviors and interests. The thinking and learning abilities of people with ASDs can vary. ASDs include autistic disorder, pervasive developmental disorder–not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS, including atypical autism), and Asperger syndrome.

Learn more about autism spectrum disorders.

These conditions all have some of the same symptoms, but they differ in terms of when the symptoms start, how severe they Continue reading →

03.11.09

by Sarah Kaplan, National Service Inclusion Project

Tips for Recruiting New Corps Members with Disabilities

Ways that national service programs can recruit members with disabilities.

Many national service programs have begun recruiting new members for the upcoming year. As you begin this process, here are some ways to recruit potential members with disabilities:

Make a statement!

When developing your program’s recruitment materials (including posters, emails, and online) and applications it is important to include a statement regarding your organizations commitment to inclusion. For example: Continue reading →

01.13.09

by Amy Potthast

Inclusive Service Projects for MLK Day

From the National Service Inclusion Project:

Today, more than ever, projects are designed using principles of universal design, accessibility and accommodation strategies so that all people can serve. For example:

In Morrisville, NC the “Building a Ramp Into the Community” project will be underway. The Durham County Affordable Housing Coalition (DAHC) and Durham Habitat for Humanity and Merck have partnered with triangle MLK Day of Service to build ramps in the Durham community. Service members include 12 seniors and people with disabilities.

The Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service sponsored by the University of Iowa’s Civic Engagement Program encourages the participation of people with disabilities and publicizes the availability of accommodations on their “Days of Service” website.

For a helpful resource on inclusive days of service, please see:
Effective Practices Guide To Inclusive And Accessible Days Of Service

NSIP would like to know what inclusive service activities you are planning and or participating in! Please contact NSIP email at: NSIP [at] umb.edu, or call 888-491-0326 (V/TTY).

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